I’m interested in one of these because it could talk to my VTL preamplifier in useful ways. Wondering if it also supports dCS equipment, Bartók streamer in my case.
The list of compatible products with Sofabaton does not include dCS. On the other hand neither is VTL ( I don’t know what you envisage).
Apart from specifics, in general universal remotes are not configured for high end audio systems which may have more control options than can be easily catered for. For example a remote cannot select or control streaming repertoire.
Even if it is just volume control that you need, unless compatibility is specified it will not have correct coding. There have been past posts over the years here on this subject but likley candidates such as Logitech Harmony are no longer available ( except used). Even if you can find one the online library of codes only includes earlier dCS lines and I do not know how Bartok may fare.
Your best bet is a learning ( rather then pre programmed) type. However you would need the dCS Universal IR control ( the plank) to learn from.
So remote control of Bartok is easiest from your phone or tablet device with Mosaic for common controls and/or using the hamburger menu, top left.
Thanks for the quick response. My setup includes the Bartók feeding into a VTL preamp, which has an annoying two-step starting procedure a friend and I hoped to circumvent with a learning remote. Sofabaton offers one; however, the dCS remote is a tad too rich for my blood.
I do not mean that you need to buy one. Just have access to one e.g. from your dCS dealer on loan. Or perhaps bring the learning remote to the shop while you programme it ?
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John, I believe depending on which Sofabaton remote you choose, they’re capable of learning from the original IR remote. Just borrow one from another dCS user and train your Sofabaton.
The following YouTube vid shows how to IR train the Sofabaton from an original IR remote.
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In my case, years ago, this was a very easy procedure. And my dealer was happy to lend me a dCS remote over a weekend to do the training. The remote (a Philips Prestigo, no longer made) had many features including a small touch screen. However, I have mostly used it just to control my dCS transport (open, close, start, stop, go to track #) and have been perfectly satisfied with that ever since.
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Got a helpful reply from the Sofabaton folks:
Dear Customer,
Thank you for your interest in our products.
Our database contains codes for the DCS brand. If you would like to confirm whether your device is supported, please share the full model number with us so we can verify it. Thank you.
Please feel free to let us know if you have any concerns.
Best regards,
Grace
SofaBaton Support Team
That sounds both helpful and useful.